Becoming the Dad I Want to Be

What is Becoming the Dad I Want to Be?

Reflect on fatherhood, your own father figures and the parent you want to be. Fathers can struggle with stress, low mood and anxiety too, especially after a new baby.

When to use it

• Men who find it hard to talk about feelings
• Stress that shows up as anger, overwork or withdrawal
• Pressure around providing and fatherhood

How to use it in session

1. Explain the purpose and check that the client wants to do this.
2. What I learned about being a father, good and bad.
3. What I want to carry forward.
4. What I want to do differently.
5. What gets in the way.
6. One small thing I will do with my child this week.
7. Agree one small next step.

Clinician tips

• Start with action-focused or practical language if that feels easier.
• Normalize; avoid implying that men are bad at feelings.
• Screen for depression, substance use and suicide risk, which can look different in men.

Sharing with clients

Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.

This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.